YELLOWKNIFE (APRIL 20, 2026) – As part of continuing efforts to improve patient experience and effectiveness of the Medical Travel Program, the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) is pleased to announce that Medical Travel Nurse Case Managers will soon be implemented in Yellowknife Primary Care, on a 2-year pilot. This pilot is being made possible by recent funding from the Department of Health and Social Services, which allows it to move into the recruitment stage.

As positions are filled, these Medical Travel Nurse Case Managers will:

• Coordinate with providers and programs that frequently refer to or receive patients for out-of-territory care.
• Evaluate opportunities for virtual care alternatives.
• Help patients avoid becoming unnecessarily attached to distant health care systems.
• Assist with developing best practices and data to reduce travel-related expenditures and improve patient navigation.

Medical travel is a high and increasing cost for the Northwest Territories' health and social services system. By improving care coordination, clarifying pathways, and expanding virtual care, we can reduce unnecessary travel and improve patient experiences. This pilot, which will introduce 3 Medical Travel Nurse Case Managers to Yellowknife Primary Care, is designed to improve this experience.

When out-of-territory care is clinically appropriate, Medical Travel Nurse Case Managers will collaborate with patients to coordinate appointments, support timely attendance, and minimize delays and disruptions whenever possible. They also divert care towards in-territory options when suitable, helping reduce the stress and inconvenience of travelling for appointments.

Quote:

“This exciting initiative, currently implemented only in the YK region, aims to improve care coordination for residents who need to travel to receive care. We will aim to reduce unnecessary travel by supporting care closer to home or virtually, and by bundling appointments to minimize trips. This pilot will also strengthen clinical data collection and inform future planning work that benefits all regions, to improve patient experience, outcomes, and the efficient use of financial and clinical resources.”

         - Kim Riles, Chief Executive Officer

The implementation of the Medical Travel Nurse Case Manager roles is now underway, with recruitment ongoing. It is expected that these roles will be implemented as they are filled over the next several months.

For media requests, please contact:

NTHSSA Communications 
nthssacomms@gov.nt.ca